Baga is a red wine grape that originated in Portugal where it is still primarily grown today in Bairrada but also in the neighbouring Dão.

Baga done right, is often compared to Pinot noir and Nebbiolo because of its ability to produce tannic wines with high acidity that can age very well. The grapes have small berries with thick skins so they can pack a lot of tannin and fruit. The vines are high yielding which doesn’t necessarily scream quality wine which is why it has been often used as a blending grape in cheaper and more commercial wines and rosés. Mateus rosé for example, uses Baga as a blending grape. When it comes to quality, Bairrada produces some of the best Baga varietal wines today which are rich and complex with great aging potential. Baga is also often used in Blanc de Noirs which is a style of sparkling wine made only from red grapes with minimal skin contact.

Like Nebbiolo, it not easy to cultivate mainly because it is very susceptible to rot. In terms of terroir, Baga likes sun exposure, a dry climate and clay soils.

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